May 2025

A hammertoe is a bending deformity that usually affects the second, third, or fourth toe, causing the middle joint to become stuck in a bent position. This can make the toe appear curled and may lead to discomfort, pressure, and difficulty wearing shoes. Hammertoes often develop due to muscle imbalance, foot structure, arthritis, or wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. Corns or calluses may form on the top of the toe where it rubs against footwear. Early stages may allow for some flexibility, but over time, the toe can become rigid. Treatment includes wearing roomier shoes, using protective padding, or trying custom orthotics to improve alignment and reduce pressure. In more advanced cases, surgery may be considered to correct the deformity. If your toe is becoming painful, stiff, or difficult to move, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for proper care and guidance.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A tailor’s bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bony bump that forms on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. It occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone shifts outward, often due to genetics, improper foot structure, or wearing narrow, tight shoes that squeeze the toes together. Symptoms include a visible bump, redness, swelling, and pain along the outside of the foot. It may feel irritated or sore, especially when walking or wearing tight shoes. Over time, the discomfort can worsen and make regular activities more difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose a tailor’s bunion through a physical exam and X-rays, then recommend a personalized treatment plan. Non-surgical options include padding, footwear modifications, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. In severe cases, surgery may be considered to realign the bone and relieve pain. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Older adults with foot pain may face more than just daily discomfort. They may also be at greater risk of falling. Research shows that those with ongoing or intense foot pain are more likely to experience repeated falls. The structure of the foot also matters. A flat foot shape, known as planus posture, may affect balance and stability, further raising the risk. These two factors often work together, making it harder for the body to respond quickly during movement. Wearing proper footwear, doing targeted exercises, and getting podiatric care can help reduce the chance of falling. Addressing foot pain early and supporting healthy foot alignment can protect both mobility and safety. If foot problems are making it harder to stay steady, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris from Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot development in babies and toddlers follows a natural progression as they grow and begin to explore their environment. At birth, a baby’s feet are soft, flat, and mostly cartilage, with arches not yet fully formed. As babies start crawling and pulling up to stand, their feet strengthen and begin to take shape. During this stage, barefoot time is ideal for natural development and balance. When toddlers begin walking, soft-soled shoes that allow for flexibility and movement are recommended to protect the feet without restricting growth. As walking becomes more steady, supportive shoes with non-slip soles help provide stability. It is important to choose shoes that fit properly, offer enough room for the toes, and do not interfere with the natural growth and development of the feet. If you have concerns about your child’s foot development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can address any questions you may have.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Dr. Kirk Sherris of Liberty Bay Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Poulsbo, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.